Capoliveri, perched on a hill 167 meters above sea level, is one of the most characteristic towns of theElba island. Its particular architecture preserves the aspect of the ancient medieval village. Between suggestive arcaded alleys called "chiassi" shops, clubs, churches and buildings nestle. Capoliveri is a crossroads of cultures, a combination of glimpses of the sea and landscapes of luxuriant vegetation. Discovering the small Tuscan village, among curiosities, monuments and the splendid grape festival.
Capoliveri between curiosities, beauties and legends
The village, in Latin times, was known by the name of Capitis llvae, Caput Liberum e Caput Liseri o Liveri. The ancient denominations derive from the cult of Dionysus-Bacchus. Caput Liberum, in particular, could designate a sacred place, a peak, a place rich in vineyards and excellent wine, but also a free place, surrounded by the sea. The coast, in fact, is a concentration of beauties between small bays and inlets such as the wonderful coves of Pareti, Morcone and Innamorata, once fishing centers and today holiday resorts. Among the curiosities of Capoliveri, there is a tragic and romantic legend that dates back to 1534.
A legend that tells of the love between Lorenzo and Maria and opposed by their respective families. A story that tells of the Innamorata beach as a love nest, of the pirates who kidnapped Lorenzo and threw him in agony into the sea. Di Maria who let herself fall into the sea in a last desperate act of love and her shawl entangled on a rock that has since been called "Scarf". (July 14 is celebrated the Feast of the Innamorata with the historical re-enactment of the event). In May the Feast of the Quarryman in homage to the mining origins of Capoliveri and the Grape Festival which is celebrated every first Sunday in October.
What to see in Capoliveri
The village of Capoliveri offers many things to see and visit. They begin with the churches: La Central Church of SS Maria Assunta, with a Romanesque layout and restored in 1995 by the then parish priest Don Gino Salmaso. Sanctuary of the Madonna Delle Grazie, of the sixteenth century. Here there is an "oil on panel" in the center of the main altar, called the "Madonna del Silenzio", by Marcello Venusti and a copy of Michelangelo's work. Plebania Church of San Michele, from the XNUMXth century in Pisan-Romanesque. Church of the Madonna della Neve in Romanesque-Pisan style and located in Lacona, an enchanting seaside resort in the municipality.
Le Mines represent a very important piece in the history of the village. We recommend that you visit the Old Workshop Museum to discover the tales of the miners and perhaps to participate in guided excursions and trekking. Another museum not to be missed is the Museum of the Sea to learn about the story of the steamship Pollux and the recovery of its treasure. It cannot be said that he has seen Capoliveri without his Mount Calamita. One of the most evocative areas of the island, where you can enjoy wild nature and breathtaking sunsets.
Grape festival: from 5 to 7 October
The town of Capoliveri is divided into four districts: the Fosso, the Tower, the Fortress and the Bulwark. The four districts, as per tradition, compete against each other during the Grape Festival. Three days dedicated to wine,grape, full of programs, re-enactments and games that end with the awarding of the most beautiful scenography linked to peasant traditions. It starts on Friday 5 October with games for children and for the districts. Saturday morning, however, continues with the blessing of the banners and from 19.30 onwards it is possible to delight the palate thanks to the food and wine stands in Piazza Matteotti. Sunday morning is the turn of the parade of the four districts and at 18.00 the verdict with the name of the winners. From that moment on, the statue of Bacchus is moved to the winning district and the party continues until the evening. Free entry. Not to be missed!
